Sgeir Traighe

Island in Argyllshire

Scotland

Sgeir Traighe

Ruins of St Cathan's Church Ardminish Credit: John Ferguson

Sgeir Traighe is a small uninhabited island located in Argyllshire, Scotland. It is situated off the west coast of the mainland, specifically in the Inner Hebrides. The island is known for its picturesque landscapes and rich history.

Covering an area of approximately 10 acres, Sgeir Traighe is predominantly composed of rocky terrain, with a few patches of grass and heather. Its coastline is rugged and indented, featuring numerous cliffs and sea stacks that provide a nesting habitat for various seabird species.

The island's history can be traced back to ancient times, as archaeological remains indicate human activity dating back to the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. It is believed that the island was used for grazing livestock during medieval times, as evidenced by the remains of stone structures and field systems.

In addition to its historical significance, Sgeir Traighe is renowned for its diverse wildlife. The surrounding waters are home to seals, dolphins, and porpoises, making it a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Birdwatchers also flock to the island to observe the nesting colonies of guillemots, razorbills, and puffins.

Access to Sgeir Traighe is limited, as there are no regular ferry services to the island. However, it can be reached by private boat or through guided tours that occasionally visit the area. Visitors are advised to respect the fragile ecosystem and adhere to any conservation guidelines in place to preserve the island's natural beauty.

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Sgeir Traighe Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.651886/-5.7509595 or Grid Reference NR6446. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Ruins of St Cathan's Church Ardminish

John Ferguson

Achamore House, Gigha

A Scottish baronial-style mansion built in 1884 Link

M J Richardson

Gigha Village Hall

Adjacent to the car park for Achamore House.

M J Richardson

Gunnera and Primula at Achamore Gardens

The gardens are a highlight of the Island of Gigha - plenty of rambling paths and a delightful informality.

M J Richardson

The pond at Achamore

Marginal primulas and irises, with emergent Potamogeton flowers, and lilies on the far side.

M J Richardson

Emergent flowers on the pond at Achamore Gardens

I'm not sure what they are; possibly a water lily of some sort - I thought at first Potamogeton flowers, from the plant with floating leaves, but I now think not.

M J Richardson

Pond-edge plants at Achamore Garden

Primula [pink] and Libertia [white flowers, of the Iris family], with a carved Otter by the pond.

M J Richardson

Giant Viper's Bugloss at Achamore

An impressive plant that grows up to 4m high, with spikes of blue flowers. Echium pininana is native to La Palma in the Canary Islands.

M J Richardson

Path in Achamore Gardens

With a fine Pine tree and an Agave/Aloe type plant.

M J Richardson

Cabbage Tree and Giant Viper's Bugloss at Achamore

Two plants [Cordyline australis, from New Zealand and Echium pininana, from the Canary Islands, resp.] that demonstrate the mildness of the Argyll climate.

M J Richardson